In the context of classical Catholic education, the Trivium refers to the three foundational arts of grammar, logic (or dialectic), and rhetoric, which are seen as essential for developing critical thinking and communication skills.

Kindergarten through fifth grade studies highlight the Grammar skills of the Trivium, and middle school studies centralize logic skills of the Trivium. Students will engage in the Rhetoric skills of the Trivium upon matriculation to Chesterton Academy.

The middle school program fits into the logic stage of the Trivium. The Logic stage of understanding relies on its etymological derivative, the Logos, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. As such, personal encounters with the Logos is central to the curriculum; most significantly through: morning Mass, and mid-day Eucharistic adoration.

The Trivium offers a precision in thinking that is frequently reflected in the use of categories. The writings of Aristotle inform The Trivium. Categories is among Aristotle’s works that present his theory of logic.

In middle school, Aristotelian logic is introduced to students through the works of philosophy scholars Rev. Sebastion Walshe, O. Praem, Dr. Peter Kreeft, and Dr. Mortimer Adler.

DAILY CLASS SCHEDULE

COURSES OF STUDY

2nd Semester:  February 3rd - June 6th

DAILY CLASSROOM PRAYERS

Holy Spirit Prayer of Saint Augustine 

 Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, That my thoughts may all be holy. 

Act in me, O Holy Spirit, That my work, too, may be holy. 

Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, That I love but what is holy. 

Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, To defend all that is holy. 

Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, That I always may be holy.